TIE U-TURNED! UEFA makes fresh decision on Chelsea quarter-finals clash with Real Madrid
It was confirmed this afternoon that Chelsea will face Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
However, following the draw, UEFA have reversed Chelsea’s Champions League tie with Real Madrid.
Now according to The SUN via UEFA, the first leg between the Blues and Real will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu due to Atletico Madrid still being in the competition
That means the crucial return fixture will happen at Stamford Bridge behind closed doors.
The reason behind it is that the two Madrid clubs can’t be at home in the same leg.
Atletico will take on Manchester City after eliminating the Premier League champions’ rivals Manchester United in the Last 16.
Atleti’s tie remains unchanged and Diego Simeone’s side takes precedence as they qualified as LaLiga champions.
This works as a major boost for Chelsea, who have been plunged into financial turmoil after owner Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions by the UK government.
This is due to Russia’s unjust invasion of Ukraine and Abramovich’s alleged ties with president Vladimir Putin.
But the west Londoners now have a better chance of making it to the Champions League semi-finals.
Therefore, Atletico will travel to England to take on City at the Etihad on April 6.
And their crucial second leg will take part at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium on April 13.
Thomas Tuchel’s men will be in action on the same days but will be based the other way around.